What was the primary language of the Bible before the Reformation?

The primary language of the Bible before the Reformation was Latin, specifically the Latin Vulgate, which was the standard version of the Bible used in the Roman Catholic Church. This translation was completed by St. Jerome in the late 4th century and became the authoritative text of the scripture in the West for many centuries. Latin was the language of the Church and scholarship, meaning that most people during this time, especially in Western Europe, were unable to access the Bible in their native languages.

The use of Latin was a significant factor that contributed to the need for reform, as many Christians desired to read and understand the scriptures in their own language, leading to various translations during and after the Reformation. The rise of vernacular languages, like German, was a response to the limitations imposed by the exclusive use of Latin. However, prior to the Reformation, the common experience for most laypeople was to engage with scripture through Latin, often without comprehending it fully. This context highlights why Latin is recognized as the primary language of the Bible before the Reformation.